Supply Chain Digital Magazine April 2023 | Page 92

US supply chain schools embrace STEM
TECHNOLOGY

US supply chain schools embrace STEM

The University of Houston is the latest US college to offer supply chain programmes that are STEM related . The Supply Chain and Logistics Technology programme is being run by the university ’ s College of Technology .
“ We are excited to share this major milestone for the programme , as we become one of three undergraduate supply chain programmes in Texas to have this distinction ," said Program Director Margaret Kidd .
According to Kidd , having a STEMrelated supply chain course follows naturally from the drive towards intelligent infrastructure and smart cities .
She added : " Texas is the US ’ s top export state , being home to Port Houston – the leading port in terms of tonnage .
" STEM-related classification expands student opportunities for scholarship funding , allows international students opportunity upon graduation to apply for STEM roles , and provides a competitive advantage when applying for internships and scholarships .
" If we want a nation where our future leaders , neighbours , and workers can solve some of the complex challenges of today and tomorrow , then knowledge and literacy in STEM fields is essential .
" We must also make sure that , no matter where children live , they have access to quality learning environments . A child ' s zip code should not determine their STEM literacy and educational options ."
In front of a both live and remote audience at BizClik ’ s TECH LIVE London event in June 2022 , Williams delivered a keynote , ‘ Recrafting the STEM narrative ’, in which she explained why not enough is being done to redress the gender imbalance in STEM roles , including those in supply chain .
“ When we design , build , and develop technology it has to represent the needs of the entire population , and just a certain percentage of it ,” she said .
Such as fighter planes and tanks with femalefriendly ergonomics , for starters . Williams stressed that challenges for women in the workplace go way beyond STEM inclusivity – that deep-seated workplace and societal biases need addressing .
92 April 2023